Events all week: March 9-15

Busy weekend packed with festivals and outdoor activities

Wednesday, March 14 — Navy Band concert: A St. Patrick’s Day party at the St. Johns County Council on Aging’s River House will include a show by the Navy Band Southeast Ceremonial Band at 10 a.m. The 20-piece band will perform favorites by composers John Phillip Sousa, Karl King, and Irving Berlin. The River House is at 179 Marine St. Call 209-3655 for information.

All local phone numbers should be preceded with a (904) unless otherwise listed.

San Sebastian Winery live music: The Cellar Upstairs Wine, Jazz & Blues Bar is located on the rooftop of the winery, 157 King St. Live music by the band Chillula will be from 7 to 11 p.m. today; with Kenny and Tony on stage from 2 to 5 p.m. March 10, followed by Midlife Crisis from 7 to 11 p.m.; and Vinny Jacobs from 2 to 5 p.m. March 11. Call 826-1594 or 888-352-9463.

Matanzas River wildlife talk: Zach McKenna, Interpretive Naturalist and owner of St. Augustine Eco Tours, will present a photo-illustrated talk on Matanzas River wildlife at 10 a.m. at the Council on Aging’s River House, 180 Marine St. Hear about seasonal bird sightings, turtle rescues, dolphin behavior, and fun recreational opportunities in the estuaries of St. Augustine. The event is free and open to the public. Call 377-7245 for reservations.

Music, Movement and Signs: Join an Intergenerational Circle using music, dance/movement and American Sign Language at 11 a.m. in the Anastasia Branch library, 124 Sea Grove Main St. All ages are welcome; children must be accompanied by an adult. Admission is free. Call 209-3730.

Turn and Burn Barrel Racing: A display of excellent horsemanship by youth and adults will be today and March 10 at the St. Johns County Fairgrounds, 5840 State Road 207, in Elkton. Call 471-1965.

Laff for Less: Jackie Knight’s Comedy Club holds comedy shows at 8:30 p.m. each Friday at its original location next to Gypsy Cab restaurant, at 828 Anastasia Blvd. Each show will feature an open mic comedy contest with a chance for participants to win a paying comedy gig. Cost is $8 per person. Call 461-8843 or go to thegypsycomedyclub.com.

Eco-explorer boat adventure: View wildlife on a one-of-a-kind excursion departing from downtown St. Augustine. Trips are reserved for up to six guests. Cost is $35 per passenger for ages 12 and older, and $15 for children. Tours times are 10:30 a.m., 12:30 and 2:30 p.m. Call St. Augustine Eco Tours for reservations at 377-7245 or go to www.staugustineecotours.com.

Fort sign language tours: The Castillo de San Marcos National Monument will offer interpretation services in American Sign Language. Anyone may request an interpreter at 3 and 4 p.m. Fridays, or at each tour held on Saturdays, beginning at 10 a.m. and continuing each hour until 3 p.m. Guests should indicate at the entrance booth if they would like to make use of these services. Call 829-6506.

Tini Martini Bar music: Live music will be available from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. in the Tini Martini Bar, 24 Avenida Menendez, at the Casablanca Inn on the bayfront. Call 829-6510.

Kingfish Grill live music: Live music will be available from 7 to 10 p.m. at Kingfish Grill, 252 Yacht Club Drive. Call 824-2111.

Acoustic guitar music: Local musician Dan Pillen will play acoustic guitar from 7 to 9 p.m. each Friday at Present Moment Cafe, 224 W. King St. Go to thepresentmomentcafe.com or call 827-4499.

The Groove music: The Impediments will perform from 7 to 11 p.m. at The Groove Café, 130 SeaGrove Main St., St. Augustine Beach. On March 10, hear the Katherine Archer Duo from 7 to 10 p.m. Call 547-2740 or go to www.thegroovecafe.com.

Saturday, March 10

St. Patrick’s Day parade: The second annual St. Patrick’s Day parade steps off at 10 a.m. March 10 at Francis Field, , 29 W. Castillo Drive, and follows the bayfront to the Bridge of Lions, takes a right down Cathedral Place, and returns to its origin via Cordova Street. This event is free with viewing along the sidewalks of the parade route.

Menorcan Heritage Celebration: Hosted by the Menorcan Cultural Society, the annual Menorcan Heritage Celebration will be from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Llambias House, 31 St. Francis St., downtown St. Augustine. The event will feature mullet net making, Datil pepper sauces and jellies, a Menorcan family photo display, storytelling by Herb Greenleaf, Sally Walton and Friends dancing group, and Menorcan T-shirts and books. In addition, the Crookshank Elementary School Puppeteers will perform a show on Cracker culture. On the menu is Menorcan clam chowder, several types of pilau, and baked goods served from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The community is invited to this free event.

Experience Your America: During the early years of the Civil War, Fort Marion — better known now as Castillo de San Marcos — was utilized by both Union soldiers and Confederates. After Florida seceded from the Union in January 1861, confederate forces occupied the old fort without firing a shot. Their hold on the fort and St. Augustine, however, was short lived. On March 12th, 1862, three Union warships arrived off the coast of St. Augustine with the intent of bringing the authority of the United States back to this seaside community by whatever means necessary. At 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., the return of Union authority to the Ancient City will be reenacted. Throughout the day historic weapons demonstrations and ranger programs will highlight the history of this venerable fort. The Castillo de San Marcos is at 1 South Castillo Drive and Avenida Menedez. Call 829-6506 or go to www.nps.gov/casa.

Baby crawling contest: An event benefiting St. Gerard House will begin at 2 p.m. at the Baby Stuff Store, 4420 U.S. 1 South. Babies who can crawl (not walk) can wine prizes. Registration is free. Donations during the event will go to St. Gerard House. Call 217-4472.

Guana trail walk: The GTM Research Reserve will host a trail walk from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the GTM Research Reserve Trailhead Pavilion, 505 Guana River Road, Ponte Vedra Beach. Join GTM Volunteer Bill Coleman for a 1.5-mile walk that the entire family will enjoy. Wear comfortable closed toe shoes. There is a $3 per vehicle parking fee. Reservations are required. Call 823-4500.

Beach walk: Join GTM Research Reserve volunteers Rick and Roz Edwards from 9 to 11 a.m. for a beach walk at the Guana South beach location, 505 Guana River Road, Ponte Vedra Beach. Learn about the animals that call the beach their home as well as seashells and other interesting facts. This is a “Beaches 101” experience that the entire family will enjoy. There is a $3 per vehicle parking fee. After the walk, visit the GTM Research Reserve Environmental Education Center (EEC) or enjoy our many miles of trails. For reservations, call 823-4500.

Celtic Music & Heritage Festival: The St. Augustine Celtic Music & Heritage Festival, presented by Romanza and Meehan’s Irish Pub, will take place March 10-11 at Francis Field. Gates open at 11 a.m. each day; events are scheduled from noon to 10 p.m. March 10, and from 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. March 11. No coolers, no skateboards, and service dogs only. General admission is $5 per day, with VIP passes also available. Go to www.CelticStAugustine.com.

Eco education sail: A two-hour journey into the Matanzas River will give guests natural history information and facts about dolphins and more. Cost is $45 for adults, $35 for children, or $250 for the whole boat (up to six passengers). Call St. Augustine Eco Tours at 377-7245 for reservations.

Old City Farmers’ market: Find fresh produce, plants, bread, cheese, handmade products, fine art and crafts from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the St. Augustine Amphitheatre, just south of the lighthouse. Also at the market, take art classes, hear live bluegrass music, and eat breakfast or lunch on site. Free parking and admission.

A Day in the Colonial Market: Local artisans, weavers, jewelers, farmers, theatre troupes, musicians and more will be featured during A Day at the Colonial Market from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Colonial Spanish Quarter, 29 Saint George St. Shoppers can bring cameras for watching the activity of the market is as much fun as shopping. Admission is free, but donation of a dollar per person is suggested. Call 825-6830.

Naturalist-led eco-explorer boat tour: Local wildlife viewing on a one-of-a-kind excursion departing from downtown St. Augustine is available at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. with St. Augustine Eco Tours. Trips are reserved for up to six guests. Cost is $35 per passenger for ages ages 12 and older, and $15 for ages two and younger. For reservations, call 377-7245. Go to www.staugustineecotours.com.

Third Annual Dart for Art fundraiser: A benefit event will be from 7 to 10 p.m. at Our Lady Star of the Sea Cultural Center, 545 A1A North, Ponte Vedra Beach. The event will showcase more than 100 original works of art from local and international artists. Culinary arts catered by Maggiano’s, Sierra Grill, Pusser’s Caribbean Grille, Ruth’s Chris, JJ’S Bistro, Barbara Jean’s and more. Tickets are $200 couple or $150 per person. Ticket includes one piece of art, wine, food and fun. Go to dartforart.net.

City Yoga event: This location will celebrate its one-year anniversary with prizes, food, fashion and more during an open house from noon to 2 p.m. at City Yoga, 900 F Anastasia Blvd. Tour our studio, enjoy refreshments, and register to win prizes. The Fountain of Youth will be offering complimentary eyebrow design while Rochelle’s will display Hardtail fashion apparel and Pockets of Sage handmade yoga bags will be available. Go to www.CityYogaStAug.com or contact 671-2860.

Plant sale: The Friends of Washington Oaks will hold its Second Saturday plant sale from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the park, 6400 N. Oceanshore Blvd., Palm Coast The danger of frost is past so it is now time to replant and prepare for spring. Proceeds benefit the park for enhancement of current and new facilities. Regular park entrance fees apply. Call 386-446-6783 or emailmelissa.kafel@dep.state.fl.us.

Art Auction: The third Annual Art Auction will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. today, and from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 11 in Memorial Presbyterian Church, 36 Sevilla St. The art sale will benefit the Good Samaritan/Wild Flower Clinic. All art will be matted or framed and sold in a silent auction format. Many of the artists are church and community members. Winners may pick up art or crafts between 2 and 4 p.m. March 11.

Boots, Brew & Bar-B-Q: Saddle up and join Communities In Schools of St. Johns for their first Spring Round-up — Boots, Brew, and Barbeque party — a honky-tonk celebration of southern style. Swing to sounds of Americana and Boot Scootin’ Boogie at The St. Augustine Rod and Gun Club and ance the night away under the barn-raising hootenanny. There will be a “Happy Hour Silent Auction” from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the paddock area featuring coveted products, services, and restaurant gift certificates. There also will be live music until 9 p.m. Patrons will have the option to taste traditional down-home offerings such as barbecue chicken, pork, beans, slaw and more. Evening appetites also will be satisfied by scrumptious country desserts. Gates open at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $50 per person. Call 824-0746.

Auditions: Limelight Theatre announces auditions for an upcoming main stage production — the Tony Award-winning play “Children of a Lesser God” by Mark Medoff. Directed by Heather Corry, the production will play on the Matuza Main Stage April 19 through May 13. Auditions are scheduled for 10 a.m. today. The cast includes roles for four women and three men: Actors of all ethnicities are invited to audition. Call 825-1164 for details.

Fort Matanzas bird walk: Join Veronica from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Fort Matanzas National Monument, 8635 A1A South. Year-round resident birds and the Great Horned Owl chicks can be seen this time of year. Participants should meet in front of the visitor center. All ages are welcome., with no birding experience necessary. Admission is free. Call 471-0116.

Sunday, March 11

Easter Festival Knighting Ceremony: The Easter Week Festival will conducts its knighting ceremony at 2 p.m. program in the Plaza de la Constitution, between King Street and Cathedral Place. Cathy Brown, executive director of the Council on Aging, and artist Jean Wagner Troemel will be recognized during a celebration which will feature colorful period clothing and Spanish entertainment. The period dress will be worn by members of the St. Augustine Easter Week Royal Trio and Family, and the entertainment will be provided by the Sally Walton Dancers and the Saly Walton River House Dancers. Michelle Reyna will be mistress of ceremonies. The public is invited to this free event.

The Human Condition & Colton McKenna: Live music will be from 7 to 11 p.m. at Scarlet O’Hara’s, 70 Hypolita St. On a tour to Austin, Texas, Dean Johanesen and Dave Berry of The Human Condition will be performing with local musician Colton McKenna. This will be the kick off show for The Human Condition’s tour to perform in the Red Gorilla Music Fest on March 14. No cover charge. Call 824-6535.

Fort Mose bird walk: Meet the birds from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. at Fort Mose Historic State Park, 15 Fort Mose Trail, from U.S. 1 North. Led by a park volunteer, this fun and informative walk is open to the public and to birders of all levels. View the rookery and search for marsh birds and migrating warblers. Dress for the weather and bring binoculars and a field guide if you have one. Walk and park entrance are free. Call 823-2232.

Lincolnville market: The new Lincolnville Farmers Market will be from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Eddie Vicker’s Park, 399 Riberia St., downtown St. Augustine. Fruit and veggie vendors, jewelry, artists, prepared food, honey and cheese, arts and crafts and other items will be available. The event is sponsored by the Lift up Lincolnville Revitalization Corporation. Admission is free. Call 806-4508.

Sunset sail: Hop aboard a stable 27-foot catamaran for a memorable sail into the waters of St. Augustine. Take in the sights and learn about wildlife. The sunset sail allows for great photo opportunities. Call St. Augustine Eco Tours at 377- 7245 for reservations.

Orchid beginners: Many orchids are sending out new roots. If they need to be repotted, this is the time to do it. This clinic will show participants how to repot orchids. The meeting is from 1 to 3 p.m. at Sue and Terry Bottom’s home, 6916 Cypress Lake Court. Guests and visitors are welcome. Go to www.staugorchidsociety.org or call Sue at 797-4360.

Kayak tour: Explore the Pellicer Creek Aquatic Preserve while kayaking for a cause from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. A percentage of proceeds will go to the Friends of Washington Oaks State Park to help with this vast conservation effort while exploring the true heart of Florida. Cost is $55 per person and includes admission into the park and all kayaking equipment. Call 347-1565 for reservations.

Monday, March 12

Santa Maria music: An open mic is held from 6 to 11 p.m. every Sunday at Santa Maria Restaurant, 135 Avenida Menendez, downtown St. Augustine. Show is for ages 21 and older. Call 829-6578.

Live music at Cafe Alcazar: Classical guitar music is offered from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Mondays and Tuesdays during lunch at Cafe Alcazar, 25 Granada St., inside the Lightner Museum. Grand piano music is performed from 11 a.m to 3 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. Call 825-9948 or go towww.TheCafeAlcazar.com.

Live music at Harry’s: Stu Weaver performs live music every Monday at Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille, 46 Avenida Menendez. Call 824-7765 or go to www.stuweaver.com.

Barre Fit class: A one-hour class that combines yoga, Pilates and the ballet barre begins at 12 p.m. each Monday at Abella’s School of Dance, 1765 Tree Blvd., from State Road 312. The class incorporates a workout that creates long, lean, supple muscles while promoting grace and balance. No dance training needed. Dress in pilates or yoga attire. No shoes required. Participants should bring a mat. Cost is $10 per class, or five classes for $40. This same class is offered at 9:30 a.m. Wednesdays, and at 5:30 p.m. Thursdays. Call Jennifer at 321-698-0180 or go tomoveandflow.blogspot.com.

Tuesday, March 13

14th Annual International Women’s Day: St. Johns County women and high school seniors will be recognized during a celebration of the 14th Annual International Women’s Day. The event begins at 5:30 p.m. at Marsh Creek Country Club, 169 Marshside Drive, St. Augustine Beach. The Enterprising Women’s Leadership Institute Inc. is recognizing those who are leaders and making a difference in our schools and communities. Go to www.ewli.org.

Wooden boatbuilding demonstrations:Learn about traditional wooden boatbuilding at the LAMP Boat Works at the St. Augustine Lighthouse, 81 Lighthouse Ave., from Anastasia Boulevard. Watch, ask questions, or lend a hand under the direction of volunteer boat builders. The Boat works is open 9 a.m. to noon every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Participation is free with admission to St. Augustine Lighthouse and Museum. Call 829-0745 or go to www.staugustinelighthouse.com. Egyptian style belly dance: Beginner belly dance classes are held at 7:30 p.m. each Tuesday by Jean Courter. Learn basic dance movements, rhythms, dance combinations, conditioning, isolation practice, and introduction to finger cymbal patterns with dance steps. No previous dance experience necessary. Call Courter at 823-9501. Wednesday, March 14

Navy Band concert: A St. Patrick’s Day party at the St. Johns County Council on Aging’s River House will include a show by the Navy Band Southeast Ceremonial Band at 10 a.m. The 20-piece band will perform favorites by composers John Phillip Sousa, Karl King, and Irving Berlin. The River House is at 179 Marine St. Call 209-3655 for information.

Nia movement classes: Dance the Nia technique from 10 to 11:30 a.m. each Wednesday at the St. Johns County Cultural Arts Center, 370 A1A Beach Blvd., next to the St. Augustine Beach pier. Cost is $7 for drop-in, or $30 for a six-class pass. Nia includes 52 movies, dynamic music, and forms from the healing arts, martial arts and dance. Call 392-3272 or go to www.nianow.com.

YogaKids: City Yoga offers a new YogaKids session from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. each Wednesday through March 28. YogaKids has been featured in TIME, ABC News, CNN, PBS and Yoga Journal, and is a unique approach to integrative learning using yoga as a pathway. Reading, storytelling, music, creative arts and earthcare blend seamlessly with yoga movement to educate the whole child. A walk-in fee is $12 per session, or $40 for a four-class session. Pre-registration is required. Go toww.CityYogaStAug.com or call 671-2860.

Mill Top music: Live music is available every day of the week in Mill Top Tavern, 19.5 Saint George St., downtown St. Augustine. Call 829-2329.

Wednesday market: This farmers‚ market offers art, handmade and organic items, fresh fruit, veggies, bread and prepared food from local vendors from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the St. Augustine Beach Pier on A1A Beach Boulevard. Free parking is available in the Pier parking lot.

Cruise with a Cause: A sunset dolphin and nature trip lead by Capt. Zach of St. Augustine Eco Tours will be from 6 to 7:30 p.m. All proceeds will go toward environmental education experiences for underserved youth. The 1.5-hour tour is $40 for adults and $35 for children. For reservations, call 377-7245.

Book signing: Author Valerie Wilson, CEO and Chairman for one of today’s largest privately owned and family managed travel consulting firms, Valerie Wilson Travel, is hosting a book signing event for her newest travel book, “Valerie Wilson’s World.” The event begins at 5:30 p.m. at TPC Sawgrass, 110 Championship Way, Ponte Vedra Beach. Go to www.valeriewilsonsworld.com or call 212-843-9341.

Boston Connection show: Local band the Boston Connection will perform from 5 to 8 p.m. each Thursday in Panama Hatties, 361 A1A Beach Blvd., St. Augustine Beach. Admission is free. Call 471-2192.

Scrabble games: The St. Johns County Council on Aging will hold scrabble games from 1 to 4 p.m. Thursdays in the Conservatory of the River House, 179 Marine St. This is a casual social group and there is no cost and no pre-registration needed. Call 209-3643 or emailmbelmont@stjohnscoa.com. Party on the patio: Complimentary live music and hors d’oeuvres will be available from 5:30 to 8 p.m. every Thursday at The Tasting Room to Go, 39 ½ Cordova St., behind The Floridian restaurant. Call 808-7202 or go to www.tastetapastogo.com.

Lighthouse for residents: St. Johns County residents who purchase full-price admission to the St. Augustine Lighthouse ($9.50 adults; $7.50 seniors and children 12 and under; free for children under 44-inches in height) will receive a pass good for free admission for an entire year. Call 829-0745 or go to www.staugustinelighthouse.com.

Flagler College tours: The Hotel Ponce de Leon is a a national historical landmark famous for its Tiffany Windows, ornate murals and Spanish-Renaissance architecture. Tours are at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., departing from the main lobby (Rotunda), at 74 King St. Tickets may be purchased at this location 15 minutes prior to each tour, or at Flagler’s Legacy, 59 Saint George St. Cost is $7 for adults, $5 for St. Augustine residents with a valid ID, and $1 for children under the age of 12. Reservations are not required. For group rates, call Samantha Palmer or Whitney Warren at 823-3378. Call Flagler’s Legacy Tours at 819-6400.

Dow Museum of Historic Houses: Free admission will be granted to St. Augustine residents the first Monday of each month. The museum is at 149 Cordova St., downtown St. Augustine. Call 823-9722 or go to www.moas.org/dowmuseum.html.

Daily Lighthouse tours: The St. Augustine Lighthouse and Museum is offering a Behind the Scenes tour that gives guests a deeper understanding of how the Lighthouse and its archaeological team are attempting to preserve St. Augustine’s history. This guided tour provides visitors the chance to view authentic, shipwreck artifacts and parts of the Historic Light Station not available with general admission, including stops in the conservation lab and office of the Lighthouse Archaeological Maritime Program. Visitors also will experience life as a keeper in the late 1800s and of course, enjoy the opportunity to climb the 219 steps to the top of the tower to take in the beautiful view from 140 feet above ground. For dates and times, call 829-0745, ext 201. Reservations are welcome.

Saint Augustine walking tours: Tour Saint Augustine Inc. is offering walking tours based on the themes of Henry Flagler, Civil Rights, Black History and Spanish Colonial History. During the Nights of Lights (through Jan. 10), Candlelight Tours also will be offered with guides in period dress. Tours are provided for individuals and groups, beginning at 4 Granada St. Cost $12 for adults, $8 for children (ages 6-12), and free for ages 5 and younger. St. Johns County resident tickets are discounted by 50-percent. Times and departures vary. Call 1-800-797-3778.

Pub crawl: Take a good old fashioned pub crawl from 5 to 7:30 p.m. daily (and also at 2 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday) through the streets and into the local drinking establishments of downtown St. Augustine. The departure point is Ann O’Malleys Pub, 23 Orange St., with parking nearby in the parking garage on Castillo Drive. Meet with a licensed city tour guide 15 minutes prior to the departure at 5 p.m. Cost is $34 per person and includes a draft beer or soda at each of the five pub stops. Make online reservations at www.staugustinepubcrawl.com, e-mail Info@StAugustinePubCrawl.com or call 540-3476.

Pirate museum: Launched in December 2010, St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum, 12 S. Castillo Drive, offers visitors a glimpse of the world’s largest collection of authentic pirate artifacts dating back to the 16th century. Regular admission is $12.99 for adults; $6.99 for children 5 to 12; and free for 4 years and younger. Call 877-467-5863 or go to www.thepiratemuseum.com. Lighthouse for residents: St. Johns County residents who purchase full-price admission to the St. Augustine Lighthouse ($9.50 adults; $7.50 seniors and children 12 and under; free for children under 44-inches in height) will receive a pass good for free admission for an entire year. Call 829-0745 or go to www.staugustinelighthouse.com. Savory Faire culinary tour: A walking tour beginning at 2 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays will explore the historical and cultural influences on the tastes of St. Augustine throughout the centuries. From Tapas to desserts, journey from the first Thanksgiving to present day culinary offerings of the city. Cost is $45 per person and includes one bottled water at the start of the tour, all tastings at five food establishments, and a special heritage recipe gift. Call 540-3476 or e-mail Info@StAugustineCityWalks.com.